The Monster of Florence by Douglas Preston with Mario Spezi

After the first half of this story about the terrible serial murders in Florence, Italy, the writing deteriorates into a repetitive reporting of who said what, when, where, but not really why! And the murders have never truly been solved. The Monster of Florence has never been found.

-Joanie

Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson

Readers who have known (and loved!) the Anne of Green Gables title character and series of books will want to know about Anne Shirley’s early life. This experienced award-winning author details the childhood of the beloved child of Bertha and Walter Shirley from her birth and tragic death of her parents, through foster homes and orphanage.

An earnest and intelligent child, Anne struggles to survive the traumatic events that befall her. With imagination, courage, determination, love of learning, and hope, Anne Shirley overcomes every dire circumstance. Only my knowledge of the “happy ending” to the original full series, gave me the will-power to continue reading chapter after chapter of the sad, hard life of this young girl. Be prepared to shet (not? a few) tears, and smile a few secret smiles for and with Anne!

-Joan

The Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte by Laura Joh Rowland

The plot is exciting and fast-paced, the characters compelling, the historical setting appropriate, and the conclusion satisfyingly realistic.

-Joanie

The Divine Circle of Ladies Courting Trouble by Dolores Stewart Riccio

The characters and plot (?) seemed confusing and unclear. Part of a series (which I have not read, nor intend to do so). Does not make the connection with this reader that one expects from “a circle of ladies” in any group! Not my group in this case, anyway.

-Joanie

The Choice by Nicholas Sparks

The central question of the novel is: how far should one go to keep the hope of love alive. This universal challenge is answered each day of all who truly love another person. “Hope is sometimes all one has” as the author explains thru story and characters.

-Joanie

Queen’s Gambit: a Leonardo Da Vinci Mystery by Diane Stuckart

As a first novel in a proposed new series, this book has all the elements of interest, suspense, surprise, and of course, murder and intrigue, as well as unique central characters and historical setting. To be a hit!

-Joanie